Most of us never even think about windshield wiper replacement until it rains and it becomes hard to see. With the wide variety of blades on the market, it can be difficult to figure out which ones are best for the vehicle we are driving, but that task is still not impossible. You may have to go to your car’s owner’s manual to determine that, but here are some other things you can to determine which ones fit your particular model and here is a list.
1. Get the exact length of the wiper blades already installed on your car by using a tape measure to find the length of the wiper blades already installed on your vehicle.
Be sure to measure both blades because some models use two different lengths. Write these measurements down, or save them on your phone and take them with you to a retailer that sells these auto parts. Then, compare them to new ones stocked on the store’s shelves before buying a pair. You may even want to remove a wiper blade from your car and take it into the store with you for comparison.
2. Ask the store’s personnel for help locating the right size if you have trouble finding this on your own.
Most store’s associates are more than happy to help. If there are none on the shelf, they might be in the stockroom and this will give them the opportunity to take advantage of a sale and keep customers coming back. Who knows, they might even install them for you.
3. Call the parts department of a dealership that sells your vehicle’s make and asks for help tracking down the model number for the windshield wiper replacement that you need.
Alternatively, you could visit the dealership while driving your car and ask them if they have the blades in stock. It might take a few extra minutes out of your day and the windshield replacement wiper blades may be a bit pricier than you can find at an auto parts establishment, but they should have exactly what you need.
If you are not sure whether to stick with the windshield wiper blades that came on your vehicle or go with another type that still fits, compare the features to help you make a good selection. Here are some points to consider.
1. Buying conventional rubber wiper blades may satisfy your need to be conservative with money. If these are the kind of blades that are already in your car and you are happy with their performance, then, by all means, save a few bucks. However, if they have never been that good, then maybe you should think about an upgrade.
2. Spend a little more money on silicone windshield replacement wiper blades if you expect to keep your vehicle for a long time because they are more durable and typically outlast cheaper rubber blades. Another reason for selecting silicone wiper blades is that they generally come with a warranty and they make less noise than ordinary ones.
3. Choose beam blades if you don’t like seeing streaks and residue left on your windshield. Beam blades do not have a rigid external frame to interfere with the way pressure is applied to the windshield. Beam blades are great for curved windshields, but they are about twice the price of conventional blades.
4. Locate sturdy wiper blades capable of withstanding tough winter conditions if you do a lot of driving in harsh weather. Visit with store personnel if you are unsure which one is best for your vehicle. Here again is where beam blades might be the answer and this is why;
- There are fewer metal parts on beam blades that can break off and that makes them better at clearing heavy debris, like snow and ice.
- For added strength, some winter blades have Teflon or graphite infused right into them.
- An added benefit of investing in wiper blades that are more durable is that they are not as hard on the wiper motor. In other words, it can actually save money when you buy better blades.
- It’s a fact that winter blades generally cost more than regular blades, but the work harder for you and typically last longer too.
With the many variations available in windshield wiper replacement blades these days, it makes sense to do some research before going to pick up a pair. Of course, you can always ask for help, but make sure that the sales associate or store personnel know what they are talking about. Along with the wide variety of parts, you can still ask professionals for their advice on which wiper blades are best for your vehicle and situation. Although saving money is always attractive, your safety is in your own hands and a clear windshield will help see what is on the road ahead.
